Art for Art's Sake Jan 09

Warning: this is another one of my unfunny blogs. Beautiful, yes-funny, no. Thanks to Mystery for inspiring me today. Her blog was not about art, but we started something in the comments that made me go in to my library and pull down some of my art books. I uploaded some of my favorite paintings, so get ready for a little journey through the late 19th-early 20th century. This is by no means all-inclusive, I know I left out many amazing painters of the time period, but I had to narrow it down somehow. And I won't even begin to tell you about artists like Vermeer et al. That will just have to be another blog.

I know I can be a bit long-winded, so I will keep the commentary short, although art is so much more interesting when you understand its context and place in time.

I'll start with Mary Cassatt-don't ask me why.
This is my favorite of her paintings


although I like this one too


Cassatt was also a genius at the art and craft of printmaking-here is just one of many


Moving on to Monet

Although I love his way with water, this is my favorite




Not to be confused with Manet,





The flowers he painted at the end of his life are some of the best


Two wizards of watercolor (and oil)

Homer







and Sargent

From the infamous Madame X (I must tell you that the family refused this painting, even after Sargent painted in the one shoulder strap)



more oils












and watercolors











Yes I know I'm heavy on the Sargents, but I found a website with lots of good reproductions.

Last but certainly not least, and squarely in the 20th century, Klimt. Of course you know my favorite portrait; Mada is my default right now (I know there is a shadow on my photo of the picture, but the online repros are not even close)





I love his landscapes







So-I guess that is enough! I know I left out many impressionists and post-impressionists, not to mention other favs like Japanese prints.
Thanks for sticking with me this far; I know there are no T and A shots or funny bits-sorry if that's what you were looking for.

What did you think of these paintings?
What or who are some of your favorite paintings or artists from this time period, or any time period? I'd love to see them.

Thanks and have a good weekend!